Quadrilatero

Right by Piazza Maggiore, Bologna's central square, the Quadrilatero seduces all the senses. Vendors offer chunks of nutty, rich Parmigiano Reggiano as samples for discerning shoppers, as well as paper-thin slices of prosciutto di Parma that melt in the mouth. Wine bars pour sparkling glasses of the local pignoletto wine alongside plates of warm focaccia, lightly salted and herby mortadella, and balsamic vinegar that is so delicious it tastes more like dark chocolate syrup than vinegar. The Quadrilatero district in Bologna is right next to Piazza Maggiore and is a perfectly easy area to visit when you are in central Bologna. Having existed for centuries, it is the city's historic market area, full of small artisan shops, cafés, and now also some more modern additions. Just keep an eye out for some of the stalls selling crescentine fritte.